New technologies, participation and policy influence: the story of Map Kibera

Tuesday 22 June 2010 12.30 to 2.30 pm, lunch provided
Room 221, IDS

How are information and communication technologies (ICTs) being deployed as catalysts of change in the South? Can we use innovations emerging around social media and mobile phones to expand the possibilities of participatory processes? Are these innovations changing the evidence base for research and decision-making, and if yes, how?

These questions will be addressed at this seminar on 22 June, which is part of the IDS 'Reimagining Development' initiative. The seminar will host Erica Hagen and Mikel Maron, the founders of Map Kibera - a project that aims to create a globally accessible and freely editable map of Kibera, one of the largest slums in Africa. The project combines social media and participatory GIS to create a map of the physical and socio-demographic characteristics of Kibera that is accessible to anyone with an Internet connection. Through contributions made by SMS reporting and videos produced by the local youth, the map has evolved into a palimpsest of information, allowing individuals and organizations to contribute information about basic services, local issues, transport and security hotspots.